Hvolsvöllur in 1 Day for Families - Super-Jeep river crossings and off-road ride into Þórsmörk
In Collaboration with Gravel Travel. Updated on February 3, 2026.
A family-friendly 4x4 Super-Jeep day trip from Reykjavík to Þórsmörk (Thorsmork). Includes pick-up, scenic drive across Hellisheiði, coffee stops in Hvolsvöllur, glacier visit at Gígjökull, a walk through Stakkholtsgjá canyon (Game of Thrones filming spot), off-road jeep exploration in Þórsmörk, a visit to Nauthúsagil ravine, and return to Reykjavík. Designed for families with children aged 8+ (Iñ
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Gravel Travel, inspired by the tour From Reykjavik Thorsmork 4x4 Day Tour . Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Super-Jeep river crossings and off-road ride into Þórsmörk
- Walk up to Gígjökull glacier (Eyjafjallajökull outlet)
- Explore Stakkholtsgjá canyon (Game of Thrones scenery)
- Hidden waterfall walk in Nauthúsagil ravine
- Comfortable pit stops in Hvolsvöllur for snacks and rest
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided 4x4 adventure from Reykjavík into Þórsmörk valley. Pickup from Reykjavík, scenic drive across Hellisheiði, stops at Hvolsvöllur for refreshments, glacier edge walk, canyon exploration, off-road Þórsmörk ride and final stop at Nauthúsagil before returning to Reykjavík.
Pickup in Reykjavík (hotel or central meeting point)
Driver-guide picks you up from your Reykjavík accommodation or the central meeting point. Please have children properly secured with car seats if required by law.
Tips from local experts:
- Pickup is typically 30 minutes before the tour start — have kids ready with layers, snacks and water to avoid last‑minute delays.
- By Icelandic law children under 135 cm must use a child car seat — bring your own if required (tour reminder in booking).
- If meeting at the central stop, choose BSÍ Bus Terminal (easy for families with luggage and toilets nearby).
Scenic drive: Reykjavík → Hellisheiði plateau → Hvolsvöllur
Comfortable drive across the Hellisheiði plateau with commentary from your guide about Icelandic geology and safety briefing for river crossings and walking on uneven ground.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a sweater — Hellisheiði can be windy even in July; seat children near windows for views but ensure they remain buckled.
- This is a good time for a bathroom and snack break before arriving at Hvolsvöllur — restrooms are limited in the highlands.
- Take photos through the window early; parking stops are short — ask the guide if you need an extra pause for family photos.
Coffee & snack stop in Hvolsvöllur — family break
Stretch legs and grab hot drinks, pastries or simple lunch items. Quick comfort stop to use toilets and check gear before heading deeper into the highlands.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a family table — many local cafés like Kaffi Krús offer high chairs and homemade sandwiches suitable for kids.
- Refill water bottles here; there are no guaranteed shops deeper into Þórsmörk.
- Use the restroom and apply sunscreen/bug repellent — it’s the last longer stop before off-road terrain.
Gígjökull glacier edge walk (short, guided)
Short walk to the moraine / edge area of Gígjökull (an outlet glacier of Eyjafjallajökull). Guide explains the 2010 eruption impacts and glacier features. Terrain is uneven—suitable for families with children 8+.
Tips from local experts:
- Hiking shoes are essential — surfaces near the glacier are rocky and can be icy in shaded spots even in summer.
- Keep kids on a short leash (or close) near moraine edges; the guide will pick a safe viewing area for the family.
- Bring windproof layers and spare socks — a quick photo stop can get chilly and damp from glacier spray.
Stakkholtsgjá canyon walk and picnic (Game of Thrones filming spot)
Walk through the mossy, narrow Stakkholtsgjá canyon — magical for kids and adults. There are short steeper sections; picnic here (bring your own lunch) with the guide helping pick a sheltered spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Strollers are not suitable; carry small children in a front carrier if needed — parts of the canyon are narrow and rocky.
- Pack a simple picnic with sandwiches and snacks — local shops are limited and food isn't provided on the tour.
- Watch for wet moss and uneven steps — hold children’s hands on inclines and wear grippy shoes.
Super-Jeep off-road ride deeper into Þórsmörk + short family-friendly hike to viewpoint
Thrilling off-road river crossings in a Super-Jeep and a guided easy hike to a family-friendly viewpoint with glacier panoramas and wide, grassy areas for kids to run safely.
Tips from local experts:
- River crossings are exciting but noisy — if anyone is nervous, sit near the guide and follow safety instructions closely.
- Choose the easier trail options offered by the guide; they tailor hikes to the children's abilities.
- Bring a small first-aid kit and motion-sickness remedies if anyone is sensitive to bumpy rides.
Nauthúsagil ravine stroll and waterfall
Short, atmospheric walk through Nauthúsagil ravine beneath rowan trees to a small waterfall — an easy, sheltered stop ideal for winding down the day.
Tips from local experts:
- The ravine is partially shaded and can be slippery — wear sturdy shoes and keep children close to avoid slips.
- This spot is great for quieter family photos — low light under the canopy makes for soft, memorable pictures.
- There are rocks and small steps — not stroller-friendly; bring a baby carrier if needed for little ones.
Return to Hvolsvöllur — last rest & refreshments
A final comfort stop in Hvolsvöllur for toilets, hot drinks and to stretch before the drive back to Reykjavík.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this stop to change damp socks and shoes — kids often enjoy a quick hot chocolate here.
- Confirm pickup/dropoff details with your guide and make sure any souvenirs are stowed safely for the drive.
- If you need a local SIM top-up or supplies, Hvolsvöllur has a small supermarket — do this now as the next stretch is remote.
Return drive to Reykjavík — drop-off at original pickup point
Comfortable drive back to Reykjavík with final photos and a short debrief from your guide. Expected arrival back in Reykjavík in the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Children often nap on the return — keep jackets handy in case the vehicle cools down when parked for drop-off.
- Confirm exact drop-off time and location during the Hvolsvöllur stop so families can prepare for evening plans.
- If you prefer an earlier drop-off in town, ask the guide — they often can accommodate reasonable requests within the route.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 6 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Break, Attraction, Outdoor, Experience |